Modi compared the civil services to the fourth lion of the Ashoka emblem, which remains invisible “yet makes its presence felt at all times.”

Addressing 360 officer trainees of the 92nd foundation course at Lal Bahadur Shastri National Academy of Administration (LBSNNA) at Mussoorie, the Prime Minister said officers must be alert and attentive.

“Learning from books will surely prevent you from straying into wrong path. But it is the connect and rapport you can establish with people which will eventually help you to become successful,” Modi told the future civil servants.

Modi arrived at the academy on Thursday and interacted with the trainee officers during his two-day stay. After Indira Gandhi in 1974, Modi is the second PM to visit the academy.

“Not just a sense of career, but a sense of mission is more important,” the PM said, encouraging trainees to study and research governance issues in depth. Modi urged them to travel, do field visits and interact with people, saying “it is a great learning experience.”

The trainee officers were asked to write an essay on the topic – why I joined civil services. For their presentations, they were given choices, such as solid waste management, skill development and digital transactions. The trainee officers also gave presentations on the Prime Minister’s pet project – Swachh Bharat Mission.

“Senior officials should go through the presentations,” the PM said.

Earlier, Modi participated in a yoga session and interacted with children at Balwadi located inside the academy premises. He also unveiled plaques to mark the laying of foundation of a new hostel building and a 200-metre multifunctional synthetic athletic track.